Proposal

"COFFEE!!" roared Tian Cai, running off.

Coffee is the blood. Coffee is life.

"After him!" yelled Gray Shadow.

"Little Brother! Wait for Big Sis!"

"Go!" commanded Small Shadow, waving the guards forward.

As Tian Cai ran, his footsteps were scaring the path in clumps of stone and rubble.

Seeing this, perturbed Bai Guang.

Since when have the streets of Savant City been so fragile?

She sighed in relief, because she noticed Tian Cai had stopped.

Between the entrance of a narrow alley, sat a woman in a heavy green cloak and hood. Thick brown curls fell about her face revealing only a fair complexion and rosy lips. On a small tray she had an open small pot. Settled on the opening was a scoop like cloth basket with edges sewn onto a wooden ring and handle.

Tian Cai was mesmerized by the contents of the basket. Within was a delicate, fluffy clump of ground…

"Coffee! Miss, is-is-is that coffee!?"

"Mhm...Young Master, you are well traveled," she said in a melodious voice. A delicate milky-white hand raised a metal kettle with a goose neck spout. Breathlessly, as though she was performing surgery, she dripped about two grams of hot water onto the center of the clump. Humming she waited. After 12 seconds, she covered the grounds with a spiraling layer of pipping hot water. This layer was no more than half a centimeter above the surface of the grounds.

A miraculous aroma filled the air and Tian Cai felt extremely, light as though drifting on clouds.

Drip...Drip...Drip...Drip.

Bai Guang, Gray Shadow, Small Shadow had finally caught up with Tian Cai.

"Little Brother, you scared Big Sis," said Bai Guang.

Gray Shadow gave Small Shadow a look. "You...You need to move faster when such events happen. What if there was had been an ambush up ahead?"

"Younger Brother will try harder, Sis," replied Small Shadow.

Drip...Drip...Drip...Drip.

After a moment, the three realized Tian Cai was fully ignoring them. His ears had long ago dimmed out any background noise. With bliss, he listened only to the regular pattering drip of coffee. He sighed as he watched the woman add another spiraling layer of hot water. This time, she filled it so that an inch of water was above the surface. After the layer drained she repeated the process until there was no more water in her kettle. Still humming, she placed the kettle down and brought out a thick ceramic cup.

Wasn't this thickness similar to an old fashioned diner's coffee mug?

Tian Cai's heart jolted.

There's only one cup!

"Miss, uhm—you aren't going to drink that by yourself are you?"

"Mhm, this is this Lady's morning coffee,"

"You wouldn't want to share?"

"Share? No. This one never willingly shares two things. Sweets and Coffee."

"You like sweets? We just happen to come from the market and have plenty of honey cakes. How about I share these and you share a cup of coffee?"

"My brain is addled has I haven't had my first cup yet." Filling her cup, she closed her eyes as she sipped. Between, each sip, she held the cup close to her chest as those it was her single most valuable treasure."

She sighed blissfully. "Ha..just like a single origin light roast should be."

OMFG! Single origin light roast coffee. When was the last time I had this??

After drinking half a cup, the woman appeared more lively. "If you have several honey cakes to spare, my coffee can be shared. In fact, I can brew another pot with a medium roast or dark roast. What do you think would pair well with your cakes? The medium has notes of citrus and tart. The dark is mellow and smooth. Alas, this was the last of my light roast. So I won't share the final cup with you."

Mulling a bit of how the cakes had tasted, he said, "Dark, they would be best with the dark roast."

With a bright ethereal smile, the woman said, "Young Master truly is a connoisseur. We-We think alike. I will prepare a pot of dark roast."

Ruffling through a large travel sack, she pulled out a thick pouch. Opening it, she revealed dark glittering beans.

Daddy just saw the light!!

"Young Master, you may know that a light-roast is best as a pour-over drip. May I recommend we enjoy the dark roast using a different brewing method."

The woman brought a metal two section kettle.

It's a fucking moka pot...stove top espresso..OMFG!

As she started to unscrew the lower bottom of the kettle, Tian Cai grabbed her hand.

"You-You wanna go home with me??"

"Eh!"

Back in the Zhao Clan, Zhao Wen was reading through various reports. A small thread of a shadow crawled up to her ear.

Suddenly, she stood up. "What Cai'er proposed!"

The faces of Bai Guang, Gray and Small Shadows were riddled with shock.

Bai Guang immediately tightened a fist and yellow hot flame burst out.

Will I have to knock some sense into him?

Gray Shadow forehead knitted.

I'll have to ask Father to pass the news, cousin-cousin likes older women. Whether he informs the Matriarch or not??

Small Shadow eyes gleamed brightly.

Follow your heart Little Brother. Small Shadow supports you.

"Young Master, your words shock this Lady's heart. Since you ask so earnestly, how can I not but accept your advances. Mu Haizhong is willing."

"Mhm!! This Young Master will take care of you for eternity."

Mu Huizhong's cheek blushed red. Covering her mouth, she said, "Husband."

"Mhm!! What!!??"

"Husband, shall I finish brewing the coffee? Or, should we proceed right way with our marriage vows?"

"Miss...This?...I don't even know your name?" exasperated Tian Cai.

Mu Huizhong stood up and pulled back her hood. Startling green eyes struck into the depths of Tian Cai's heart. Bowing, she accentuated the well endowed curves of her chest and said, "Mu Huizhong greets Hubby."

"Who's your hubby! You dare seduce my Little Brother. He's barely 5 years old!" intervened Bai Guang as she placed herself before Tian Cai. "Protect the Young Master," she commanded. Gray and Small Shadows defended Tian Cai's sides as the guards formed about them in a ring.

"Brother Tian Cai, what's with all the ruckus," called a meek voice. Everyone looked up and quickly found the dainty form of Ling Fan. Behind her were Shensheng, the Wang Sisters, Elder Bing and Vice Chief Tang Xifeng.

Mu Huizhong's eyes dilated.

Little Hussy, I finally found you!

Shensheng stepped before Ling Fan and grunted. "You-You wanna die? You have your eyes on my Disciple?"

"Zhu Shensheng, the Divine Pig you-you are here as well?" asked Mu Huizhong.

Shensheng snorted, "You know my identity?"

"The records never described you as being here in this time."

Sniffing a bit, Shensheng sauntered forward, "You-You aren't of this time period. Abomination! You're breaking Cosmic Law!"

"Che! Can't you sense the fluctuations about me? You think, I'm here willingly?"

"Time Anomaly!!!"

"Little Kill—ahem Sister Ling Fan, you're touring the city as well?"

"Mhm. Grandfather has taken me out shopping. He's just inside the shop."

"Small Disaster—ahem Young Zhao, your here. Fan'er come-come close to Grandfather's side," said Ling Wenyan, striding out of the shop.

Didn't we just survive a plethora of calamities just yesterday. Now we run into Small Disaster King the very next day.

"Senior Ling, this one recognizes you," said Tian Cai bowing.

Clearing her throat, Mu Huizhong asked, "Hubby, will you introduce wife to your friends?"

Eh?

This?

Alarms rang in Ling Wenyan's head. He wasn't quite sure what he just heard. Nor did he want to understand...what he knew...he knew he absolutely...most assuredly wanted no part in this discussion. Seeing that everyone was in a fighting stance...what he wanted to do was RUN!!

Erupting in chuckles, "Ha! Young Zhao, I wish we had the time to stay and drink tea with you but-but-but Ming'er is expecting us home any minute. Enjoy your time in the city!" In a whirlwind, he grabbed Ling Fan and ran off. The Wang sisters, Elder Bing and Vice Chief Tang followed in a huff.

Shensheng looked at Mu Huizhong with one eye, "This Queen will look for you later. Don't think you can hide." After giving her warning, the Divine Pig scampered away.

In Ling Wenyan's arms, Ling Fan asked, "Grandfather, why-why are we running away?'

"Anybody sees the Zhao Empyreans, just scream and run faster. Nobody look back!!" exclaimed, Ling Wenyan.

"Grandfather?"

"Fan'er didn't you see Bai Guang's flaming fist. A fight was about to break…."

THOOM!

A raging stream of flaming light flashed by them, blasting the group to the side.

Ling Wenyan hissed, "It's Zhao Wen!! Up Up Up! Run!"

SSHHHOMM!!

A ray of incandescent blue-flame tore pass the group.

"AH—Zhao Jia too! GOOOOOO!!" yelled Ling Wenyan.

Seeing her two idols, Ling Fan raised two dainty fists into the air. "Bosses!! Go Bosses Go! I wanna see the fight! I wanna see!!!"

Shensheng snorted, "Little Girl, have you gone mad?"

"MHM!!"

Bai Guang's other fist burst into flame. "Miss, not just anyone can take advantage of our Zhao Clan. Leave now, or become intimate with all ten of my knuckles."

"Miss Bai Guang, just now everyone witnessed Zhao Tian Cai proposing to me. As I accepted his brave heartfelt proposal. We are now deemed Husband and Wife."

THOOMM!

SSHHHOMM!!

Out of a pillar of fire and dazzling light, Zhao Wen and Zhao Jia walked out.

"Humph! What sort of bullshit logic is this?" asked Zhao Wen.

Without even waiting for answer, Zhao Jia pulled her ruler out and was about to rush forward when Zhao Wen held her back.

"Grandmother, let her answer first!"

Unperturbed by the arrival of the two Empyreans. Mu Huizhong stepped forward and kowtowed.

"Grandmother-in-law. Mother-in-law. Mu Huizhong greets you. I will watch and protect husband with my life."

"You dare??" asked Zhao Wen, drawing her sword.

Pulling out a token, Mu Huizhong respectfully offered it to Zhao Wen. "Mother-in-law, before judging, Daughter-in-law asks you look at this token."

Taking the token, Zhao Wen stiffened. Etched on the surface of the pure white jade was the characters for Yun."

"Daughter-in-law comes from the Ninth Chaos Heaven."

"You-You are from the Yun Clan?"

"Mother-in-law is wise as she is beautiful."

"The Yun Clan??" hissed Zhao Jia. Looking at her ruler, she quickly put it away. Similarly, Zhao Wen followed suit.

"Young Miss Mu, let me invite you back to our manor. Over tea, let us leisurely discuss the purpose of your visit," said Zhao Wen.

"Daughter-in-law graciously accepts."

Shouts spontaneously erupted in the streets.

Duel!

Duel!

Duel?

Stopping a person, Bai Guang asked, "Who's dueling?"

"You haven't heard? It's Young Disaster King, Zhao Qiang Not only has he returned, but he's just challenged every Martial King in the City."

Zhao Qiang!

"Grandmother, prepare the Heavenly Punishing Net! We've got to stop him."

"Mhm!!"

In a mass of distorting and popping air, the two disappeared.

The person eeked in horror. Jabbing a finger he said, "You-'re the Zhao Clan!"

"Where's the duel taking place?" asked Bai Guang.

"Savant's Grace Plaza," he meekly responded.

"Let's go!" commanded Bai Guang.

Everyone was about to rush off when they realized, Tian Cai hadn't budged an inch.

"Little Brother, what's wrong?" asked Bai Guang.

Ignoring her, he gently helped Mu Huizhong to her feet. "Fairy Mu, weren't you about to brew an espresso?" Snapping his fingers, he said, "Someone, bring out the honey cakes. Earlier, Fairy Mu said she was hungry."

Everyone gave him a strange look.

Since when did she say she was hungry?

"Husband, out of respect for Mother-in-law, shouldn't we we await her arrival at the Clan Manor?" asked Mu Huizhong.

Three lines of veins popped out of Tian Cai's forehead. Through gritted teeth, he said, "Beauty, can you pretend that its been five years since this Young Master has enjoyed a cup of coffee."

"Oh-Oh My!" exclaimed, Mu Huizhong covering her mouth in surprise. "Wife-Wife will brew you a cup right now."

Tian Cai nodded vigorously.

"Little Brother, Master may need our help. Martial-Uncle Zhao Qiang has always been a handful. Calamity could strike at any moment."

Tian Cai shot a look at Bai Guang, his eyes filled with a strange light.

Coffee is the blood. Coffee is the life. You're gonna have to move my stone cold dead body first.

Mu Huizhong started humming and soon the fresh aroma of espresso filled the aroma.

Blissfully, enjoying the smell, Tian Cai asked, "Beauty, that tune your humming is beautiful. Sounds delightful when brewing coffee. What's it called?"

Mu Huizhong stiffened. She looked up with her green eyes.

Tian Cai shook. Weren't those the saddest eyes he'd ever seen?

Beloved, you-you taught me this song.

Clearing her throat, she softly said, "A dear beloved person taught me directly,"

"Ah, I see," Feeling slightly guilty, Tian Cai pushed a cake forward. "Beauty, if you're hungry, please eat. Food-Food always makes one feel better."

"Mhm," she nodded. Gingerly taking a bite, she smiled and said, "The cakes husband gives me always taste the best."

THOOM!

SSHHHOMM!!

Zhao Wen and Zhao Jia had returned. Over Zhao Jia's shoulder was a passed out man in the Heavenly Punishing Net.

"Cai'er, you're still here? Come, come meet your Uncle Qiang."

Zhao Jia's ears twitched. "Granddaughter its the City Guards, they're chasing."

"Aiya!! Son, if you see the city guards, tell them we weren't here. See you soon!!"

Not even a moment after the two left, a young very fit girl with short hair appeared. This was apparent because she wore tight fitting robes with leggings. Muscles rippled across her arms, legs and torso.

With a spat she said, "Bai Guang."

Bai Guang stiffened and in a low voice hissed, "Qin Rong."

They were staring so hard at each other that Tian Cai felt suffocated by the tension.

Before another word could be spoken, the City Guards rushed into the scene.

"You dare run from us? Where's your Master Zhao Qiang?" demanded the lieutenant.

"Lieutenant, its-its best we move on," suggested a guard. Earlier, he had noticed Tian Cai.

"You don't interrupt. Don't you see I'm interrogating her? Half of Savant's Grace Plaza is destroyed," said the Lieutenant.

Qin Rong ignored the lieutenant. "Bai Guang, today is the day we see whose fist is strongest. My Metal Fist or your Burning Fist. Seeing as the Youngest Master is here, we'll bet on him. Should I win, I'll escort him for a month."

Bai Guang's forehead knitted. Striding forward, she said, "Qin Rong, there's no need to bet. I'll fight you here and now."

Biting into another cake, Mu Huizhong said, "Hubby, this morning is so lively. My heart races with excitement. Your coffee will be ready any moment now."

"Mhm!" exclaimed Tian Cai with the happiest of smiles.

Gray and Small Shadows looked at each other.

Was he a newlywed?

Qin Rong cupped her hands. "Youngest Master, Zhao Qiang's disciple Qin Rong greets you."

"Humph! You dare ignore the City Guard. Everyone, capture them all!" commanded the Lieutenant. Quickly, he discovered that no one moved.

"You rebelling? You wanna be put to death!?"

Pointing to Tian Cai, a guard said, "Respectfully sir, that-that is Small Disaster King, Zhao Tian Cai."

"You think this Lieutenant cares about Small Disas…," abruptly the Lieutenant choked on his words. Eyes popping out wide as they focused on Tian Cai.

"Ha Ha Ha Ha! This-This Lieutenant was just joking. We-We mistook you for common thieves—er no unruly citizens. Forgive us as we've duties to protect the city. Everyone, quickly go!"

As quickly as they had rushed in, the City Guards rushed out.

Raising her fists, all of Qin Rong's muscles tensed as she roared, "Bai Guang, watch as my Metal Fist crushes your face."

"Humph! My Burning Fist will burn a hole in your head," said Bai Guang with inverted crazy eyes."

Roaring she was about to jump forward, when Mu Huizhong said, "Hubby, your coffee's ready."

"SHUT UP!!" roared Tian Cai. "Can't this Young Master drink a cup of joe in peace!?"

Qin Rong and Bai Guang stared at Tian Cai in startled shock.

This?

Bai Guang said, "Little Brother, Big Sis is sorry. That brick of brains Qin Rong should have known better. Later, I'll show her proper etiquette."

"Youngest Master, if Qin Rong knew you were trying to enjoy a beverage, she never would have interrupted. Gladly, I'll keep that wench Bai Guang quiet for you."

Offering small a demitasse cup to Tian Cai, Mu Huizhong said, "Hubby, please enjoy."

With a trembling hand, Tian Cai gingerly accepted the demitasse cup. He took a sip and all kinds of joy distorted his face.

Closing his eyes in bliss, he took another sip. Abruptly, his eyes popped open and gave Mu Huizhong a blazing hot glare.

"Woman! Don't-Don't ever leave my side!"

Qin Rong's eyes constricted.

What did she just walk into? Did Youngest Master just propose?